The year 2008 marks the fifteenth year since the establishment of the Minnesota Rodeo Association, as we know it today. Though operating on a similar basis back in the mid-70's, folks tell us it died out for lack of interest.

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In 1992, the dream harbored in the mind of MRA founding President Tom Sonenstahl, and by '93 he had established a "paper club" with several members. He and a hand full of volunteers kept track of dollars won at rodeos that were "sanctioned MRA" by private agreement with Cimarron Rodeos. At the end of that year, buckles were awarded to those with the highest dollars won.

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In early 1994, the tiny board of directors sat down and established a point system that would allow a significant number of MRA contestants other than money winners to be in the standings and qualify for points. It was through this point system that the contestants qualified for the first MRA Finals Rodeo held in Grand Rapids, MN in September 1994. Volunteers combed the streets and raised enough to make the added money, while the secretary sent the "MRA News" from a typewriter on the kitchen table. In Late 1994, the MRA held it's first awards banquet in St. Cloud. It was at this banquet that the first MRA Queen was chosen and crowned.

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Word of the growing association got around and by 1995, there were 250 members. Volunteers got started going out on a monthly basis. More stock contractors became involved, and with more rodeos to offer, membership increased. With the MRA in the public eye, season sponsors became interested. Sponsors and increasing membership made it possible to produce a larger finals rodeo with more prize money, awards, and a bigger year-end Awards Banquet.

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By 1996, saddles were awarded to the All-Around Champions. In late 1996, the Tim Tierney Injured Cowboy Fund was established by a member who shared part of his finals winnings to start it. This fund has helped ease the way for many of our members in times of serious trouble since it's inception.

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By 1997 the membership had reached nearly 500 with 24 rodeos co-sanctioned in three states with three Associations and a variety of stock contractors. Although the association is now running with com-puters and office help, personal touch is still there. MRA officials and board members can still be found at nearly every rodeo location and are always willing to assist in any way. As the MRA enters the new Millennium, it is with much gratitude to all those who continue to offer their support. With the popularity of rodeo in Minnesota on the rise, we are looking forward to another exciting year with new rodeos and new members.